Alonissos Marine Park

The National Marine Park of Alonissos & Northern Sporades is the wild, quiet side of the Sporades — clear water, remote anchorages, and a true “leave no trace” vibe. Access is limited to certain zones, mainly around Kyra Panagia and Skatzoura, so plan ahead and respect local rules.

  • Best for: peace, wildlife, off-grid overnight stays
  • Typical conditions: exposed to northerlies — plan with a weather window
  • Facilities: none; carry water and supplies
  • Good to know: parts of the park are restricted; stay within allowed anchor zones
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Psathoura Island in the Alonissos national marine park

Marine Park at a glance

The National Marine Park of Alonissos & Northern Sporades is the wild side of the area — big open sea, uninhabited islands, and some of the clearest water you’ll see all week. It includes islands like Kyra Panagia, Skatzoura, Gioura, Psathoura and Piperi, with zones set aside for wildlife protection. Some parts are strictly protected (Zone A) and have entry rules — so check the official guidance before you go.

Official park info & rules →

  • Sailing style: A “special day” — longer legs, open sea, and remote island scenery
  • Best experience: Plan it as an overnight-style outing (when permitted) so you get the quiet, remote-bay vibe — not just a quick pass-through
  • Where you’ll actually go: Most visits focus on Kyra Panagia and Skatzoura
  • Good to know: Park ticket / access rules apply — confirm what’s required for your route before you go
  • Before you leave: Check zones + restrictions on the official Park site (rules can change, and some areas are strictly protected)
Map of Kyra Panagia and Skatzoura showing key bays and the monastery

Kyra Panagia: Agios Petros • Planitis • Monastery | Skatzoura: Skatzoura Bay

Stop-by-stop tips

Agios Petros Bay

One of the most protected anchorages in the Park — crystal-clear water and a calm, remote feel. If you choose just one Kyra Panagia bay, this is the “comfort pick”.

  • Shelter / conditions: well protected — a great choice when you want the calmest bay.
  • Mooring / lines: best with anchor + long lines to the rocks ashore (daylight setup + extra chain).
  • Good to know: very limited signal — expect poor/no phone connection in the bay.

Planitis Bay

A spectacular “looks-like-a-lake” bay — once you’re inside, it feels completely still and remote.

  • Entrance / exit: plan it for light northerlies — the narrow passage can become difficult (even dangerous) to enter or leave if waves build.
  • Mooring / lines: best with anchor + long lines to the rocks ashore (daylight setup + extra chain).
  • Good to know: expect no phone connection — you’ll feel properly off-grid here.

Monastery

A rare “human touch” in the Park: the Monastery of Kyra Panagia, a post-Byzantine monastery dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, historically linked to Megisti Lavra (Mount Athos).

  • Landing / dock: there’s a small dock for visits, but it’s not always usable — if there’s swell or surge, don’t force it.
  • Approach & anchoring: anchor off in a safe clear spot and go in by dinghy only if conditions are settled and safe.
  • Visit: short walk up to the monastery for views and a proper “this is the Marine Park” moment.

Skatzoura Island

Crystal-clear water and a quiet, remote feel — further out, so it’s usually less busy than Kyra Panagia.

  • Why stop here: a beautiful swim stop with that “far away from everything” Marine Park vibe.
  • Traffic: because it’s further, it’s often quieter — boats come through, but it rarely feels crowded.
  • Route idea: works well as a midway stop on the way to / back from Skyros.
  • Good to know: overnight is not allowed — treat it as a day stop and move on in time.
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Practical Tips

Restrictions & planning

The Marine Park isn’t a “wing it” area. Rules depend on zones, and tickets / access requirements can apply — check the official guidance before you go. Plan your stop as a proper outing: daylight arrival, simple plan, clear fallback.

Weather windows (entrances matter here)

Some anchorages are only comfortable when conditions are friendly. In places like Planitis, the narrow entrance can be tricky if northerlies build waves — you’ll need a calm window — not just to enter, but to leave safely too.

Off-grid reality (signal & supplies)

Expect little to no phone connection in many bays (that’s part of the magic). There are no real facilities, so go in with water, food, and a charged crew — and keep your plans simple.

Quick checklist

  • Check zones / restrictions + ticket rules on the official Park site
  • Choose a weather window (especially for narrow entrances like Planitis)
  • Expect no signal — check the weather before you arrive (you won’t be able to update forecasts once you’re inside).
  • Bring everything you need (water/food) — no facilities

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